Evidence To Collect After A Motorcycle Accident
Michael Babboni
Motorcycle Accidents
Florida is the perfect state for motorcycle riders. Our year long good weather, flat highways, and beautiful nature make it a great state to ride. Unfortunately, because it is such a great state for motorcycles, it also has one of the highest rates of motorcycle accidents. Every year, there are over 10,000 motorcycle accidents across our state, many of which lead to fatalities. Those who are lucky enough to survive are also left with severe and life altering injuries. In either case, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages.Why Evidence Matters
In order to receive compensation for your damages, you have to prove the accident was the fault of the other driver. The best way to do this is with the help of an attorney and a lot of evidence to show both the insurance companies and the courts what happened was the fault of the other driver. So anytime you’re in an accident, in a car or riding a motorcycle, you need to always try your best to collect evidence from what happened.
The Two Types Of Evidence You Will Need
There are two types of evidence you will need to collect after a motorcycle. The first is accident evidence, which is not only proof there was an accident, but of the details of the accident. The second is the evidence of your damages. This includes everything that shows what the accident cost you both tangible costs like medical bills and intangible costs like loss of consortium with your loved ones. Collecting both types of evidence will help you win your case.
Motorcycle Accident Evidence
Motorcycle accident evidence is collected at the scene of the crime. Please note that if you are severely injured, you need to focus on seeking medical attention immediately. Protecting your health is much more important than collecting evidence. If you do not need immediate medical care or are able to function while you wait for an ambulance, here are some things you should try to document for evidence:
● Driver Information: Get the name, insurance company, and contact information for the other driver or drivers. You will also want to get the information about their vehicle including make, model, and license plate.
● Witnesses: Get the names and contact information from any witnesses. If you can jot down some notes about what they saw.
● Photographs: Take as many photographs as possible. Fortunately with smartphones, it’s easy to take hundreds of photographs. You’ll never know what could prove your claim. Take pictures of the vehicles, the road, your injuries, and anything else that may be relevant.
● Police Report: Make sure to get a copy of the accident report from the officer that comes to the scene of the crime.
● Written Description Of The Accident: As soon as you are able, try to write down everything you remember about the accident. This is important to do while it is fresh in your mind so you don’t forget any important details.
Make sure to keep all these things organized and easily accessible in case you have to fight for your right to damages.
Evidence Of Your Motorcycle Accident Damages
The next thing you need to start collecting is proof of your damages. Damages can be understood of everything that was damaged from the accident. This can include:
● Medical bills including diagnosis, treatment, pharmaceuticals, and therapy
● Proof your income and any lost wages or benefits
● Cost of your vehicle damages to repair or to replacement
The tangible evidence of your damages is easy to collect. What is more difficult is the intangible costs like pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of consortium. However, a knowledgeable accident attorney can help you calculate the value of these intangible costs and how to document them.
Collecting evidence from your motorcycle accident will help you when you file a claim. However, insurance companies will always try to find a way to get out of paying. Don’t let them! Instead call the St. Pete Lawyer, Michael Babboni. He’ll help you collect all the evidence you need to get a fair settlement for your damages. Give him a call at 1-727-381-9200 to learn more!